Credit must go to THE WEEK for organising a Defence Summit that brought together prominent voices who outlined India’s military options at this critical juncture (‘Asserting power on a global scale’, May 11).
Today, India possesses one of the most sophisticated and capable armed forces in the world. All three services are equipped to anticipate enemy’s strategies and respond with decisive strength. We face multi-domain threats from various quarters. Therefore, defence production must remain a national priority, alongside the welfare of our armed forces.
Jayant Khatri,
On email.
Rajnath Singh is the ideal choice to serve as India’s defence minister. He combines geniality with firmness, and his vast experience, along with the strong rapport he shares with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, makes this the most effective prime minister-defence minister partnerships the country has seen.
The two leaders share mutual trust and camaraderie, which translates into seamless coordination. Singh also commands the respect of the chiefs of the armed forces.
Maya Sen Kumar,
On email.
India’s armed forces are fully equipped to deal with terrorism and militant activities. As Rajnath Singh noted, India has advanced weaponry and essential combat systems, which are being effectively managed by our defence personnel.
Raghavan Rajagopal,
On email.
Humans are increasingly using advanced technology against fellow humans. The conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine, and India and Pakistan are stark reminders of this troubling reality.
While some nations may gain strategic advantages from war, it is the innocent civilians who bear the brunt of the suffering. The devastation of war extends far beyond physical destruction—it leaves deep and lasting scars on the human psyche.
Subhash Desai,
On email.
Your cover story, featuring Singh’s insights on the country’s military preparedness, was excellent. It offers valuable perspectives on India’s approach to multi-domain threats and helps the common man understand the gravity of the security situation.
Praveen Thimmaiah,
On email.
From here on, India must intensify its diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan and make it clear that continued hostility will carry significant consequences.
Within the next decade, Balochistan is likely to emerge as an independent nation, with support from the United Nations and a majority of the international community.
India should deepen its engagement with the Baloch people and extend all necessary support to their aspirations. Establishing a Baloch representative base in India should be encouraged, and New Delhi must actively champion the Baloch cause on global platforms.
Hemalatha V.M.,
On email.
Losing interest in cricket
Though K.C. Verma did not make a strong point in his column, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it (‘It is not cricket’, May 11). There is simply too much cricket these days.
I believe genuine lovers of the game lost interest in cricket after the IPL began in 2008. Most of those who attend these matches aren’t true cricket enthusiasts—they come more for the fun and entertainment. It is a fact that when something becomes oversaturated, people tend to lose interest in it.
Meghdeep Das,
On email.
If cricket lovers were to read Verma’s satirical take, there could well be a national uproar, with many demanding an apology for his claim that the IPL is “not cricket”.
It is a mad, mad world—cheerleaders gyrating, vendors hawking all kinds of snacks in the stadium, and homes filled with apoplectic spectators, swinging between fits of rage and bursts of joy in front of their TVs.
Parthasarathy Mandadi,
On email.
Smart Omar
Omar Abdullah is in a much better position today (‘Detour’, May 11). Since the Pahalgam terror attack, Omar has emerged as a strong nationalist voice, speaking out firmly against Pakistan. He understands that the situation has changed and that isolation is no longer an option.
Omar’s father, Farooq Abdullah, can learn a lot from him. Farooq often reacts impulsively and lacks the ability to adapt diplomatically when the situation demands it.
Nikhil Saxena,
On email.
Smart farming
Rich in nutrients, jackfruit is truly a wonder fruit (‘Hitting the ‘jack’ pot’, May 11). And let us not forget how delicious it tastes!
I only wish jackfruit were more commonly available in north India. For now, we have to travel to south India, and eastern part of India to enjoy it in abundance.
A big round of applause to S.S. Paramesha for preserving a 40-year-old jackfruit tree. That’s a smart and sustainable approach to farming—one that can inspire many others.
Anuj Pandey,
On email.
New dimension
‘Scalpen’ has brought a refreshing new dimension to THE WEEK. Dr Mazda Turel’s invigorating style and rich vocabulary invite multiple readings.
Jayakumar Daniel,
On email.